Scranton and the Northeast US Region are currently experiencing poor air quality due to smoke from Canada’s fires. We will continue to experience this today, June 29, 2023, until midnight.
Wildfire smoke can make anyone sick, but people with asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), heart disease, or individuals who are pregnant as well as children and responders are especially at risk.
Breathing in smoke can affect you right away, causing coughing, trouble breathing, wheezing, asthma attacks, stinging eyes, scratchy throat, Runny nose, headaches, tiredness, chest pain, and/or a fast heartbeat.
Keep yourself safe by taking the following precautions.
- Keep windows and doors closed as often as possible.
- Choose a room you can close off from outside air. Set up a portable air cleaner or a filter to keep the air in this room clean.
- Restrict outdoor activities.
- Avoid strenuous outdoor activity.
- Reduce your smoke exposure by wearing an N95 mask/respirator.
Seek medical help if you experience respiratory issues.
For more information, check out the following:
Safety During a Wildfire|Wildfires (cdc.gov)
Air Quality Guide for Particle Pollution, February 2023, EPA-452/F-23-002 (airnow.gov)
Last modified: June 29, 2023
